iPad, iPad + Mac Mini, Mac Mini or MacBook

I am giving my Oct. 2008 MacBook to my younger brother as he is going to college. I am going to be in need a new computer. I am completely confused. Should I get just an iPad as I really only do web browsing and light computing, an iPad plus Mac Mini the iPad for portability and mac mini to be hooked up to my TV for an actual computer and HTPC. Or Just a mac mini as my computer and HTPC but with no portability or just a new macbook that is a portable full computer but doesn't function as an HTPC, which is something I want. The iPad + Mac Mini combo would be the best of both worlds and be the same price as a 13" MacBook Pro, but I feel the Mac Mini would not get as much use if I had an iPad to do web browsing and games. I don't want a $699 mac mini not be used. Any ideas?

I know that, I have access to a windows computer but I don't want to use it all the time, haha big suprise.

Click to expand...

Well, if you don't mind using the windows computer to sync/backup/update your iPad, then that would be a viable option. iPad is super portable even compared to a MacBook, and sounds like it would fit your computing needs. But if you hate Windows enough that you want to spend the extra $$ on a MacMini or give up some portability with a Macbook, that's up to you.

I wouldn't mind using a windows computer to sync/backup and update but I need an HTPC but feel it would go unused due to the surfing capabilities of the iPad, maybe I'll get a Dell Zino HD in addition to an iPad.......

If you only need for light web browsing and playing games [yes you're bound to play games on this magical device], then iPad will do just fine as you have access to a PC. If you're like me [an engineer] who needs a computer for some hardcore engineering apps which cannot be run on an iPad and you do not need portability, then go for the laptop.
I have it set up so that I carry my iPad to work, classes, meetings, and conferences [yes I am doing all of them as meetings and conferences relate to work], and when I need to do a project which requires heavy CAD use or Visio use, then I use my laptop [which is now officially a desktop replacement even though it's only 5 lbs].

MacRumors attracts a broad audience
of both consumers and professionals interested in
the latest technologies and products. We also boast an active community focused on
purchasing decisions and technical aspects of the iPhone, iPod, iPad, and Mac platforms.